Coffee from the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is found in the Caribbean, on the beautiful island of Hispaniola. It is a place famous for its unique culture and traditions, extraordinary landscape, and, most important of all, a rich farmland. Because of the strong impact, it has had on the coffee industry, now it is one of the most well-known coffee producers in the whole wide world. Are you curious about how this happened?

A quick run-down

The history of coffee production in the Dominican Republic starts about 300 years ago. In 1715, Spanish colonists introduced the locals to the crop and it quickly became popular. Even though this phenomenon kept going until it eventually turned into a national obsession, coffee was not exported largely until 1872.

Given the investment the people had into their coffee crops, that still goes on to this day, it is no wonder the success they have in the industry. 

A natural advantage

Of course, this success would not be possible without the soil also playing its part. The tropical and mountainous regions found in the Dominican Republic are more than perfect for coffee bean growing. 

The elevations between 2.000 and 5.000 feet are the main reason why the beans are able to develop such complex and flavourful sugars which we all know and love. This happens because at high altitudes, the growing conditions are much harsher, therefore giving the coffee beans more time to grow and create their unique aromas. 

The regions where this intricate process takes place are Cibao, Baní, Azua, Ocoa, Barahona and Juncalito. Due to the economic power they hold, they are protected by the government in order to preserve the flavour profiles of each region. 

Farmers are at the peak of their effort from September to May, when the harvest period happens. This effort can be seen throughout the world, with approximately 350.000-500.000 bags of coffee exported annually. Thanks to that, they own the 31st place in the world in the rank of coffee exporters. If you thought this is a quantity, you should also consider the fact that most of the produced coffee ends up being consumed by the country’s residents, and not exported. Therefore, the real number is much higher. 

Curious about the coffee?

Considering how diverse the growing regions are, the same happens to the variety of brands and blends available. We know there is a lot to choose from, so here are a few narrowed down options: Cafe Santo Domingo (nuts, chocolate and berries notes), Kimera Koffee Original Roast (extra essential vitamins), Volcanica Coffee: Dominican Coffee (100% arabica, robust and savory), Fresh Roasted Coffee: Dominican Republic K-Cups (packaged almost immediately after roasting, eco-friendly). If you are curious about whichever one of these coffees, you can find them on sites like Cafendo or Roasty Coffee. We are more than confident that you will not be disappointed at all!

Both arabica and robusta coffee beans are being grown in the Dominican Republic, but arabica takes the lead. All coffee is wet processed, this means that after the cherries have been picked, they are pulped by a machine and then fermented in water for 1 or 2 days. This process is very common, mostly because through it you can produce the highest quality coffee possible. 

A sweet life

Some of us could learn a thing or two about enjoying coffee from the Dominicans. They rarely have their cup completely black. Most of the time they enjoy it sweeter in flavour, which is why farmers also harvest almost as much sugar as they harvest coffee. Also, a common practice among brewers is to blend coffee and sugar together so a sweeter flavour is achieved. Considering all of these, it is no wonder that Dominicans enjoy this treat morning, afternoon and evening. Basically, anytime is coffee time!

Coffee from the Dominican Republic is a very versatile drink that is most likely going to be able to satisfy even the most fine tastes. Not only are the landscapes extremely various, so are the regions, and therefore the flavour profiles. Each one is blended differently and can even be brewed in endless ways. Not only do you have the possibility to taste an almost infinite number of coffees, but you can also experiment until you find the perfect fit for you.